In early May, Ohio governor Mike DeWine rolled out the Responsible Restart Ohio plan, a multi-faceted strategy on loosening the restrictions implemented to curb the spread of COVID-19 earlier this year.
While it was certainly good news to local businesses that were forced to halt operations and to residents who have been ordered to shelter in place for several weeks, the coronavirus threat remains at large. This is why it’s crucial for everyone to play their part in keeping the spread of the virus at bay.
The best way to help is still to stay at home and limit physical interaction as much as possible. If you can’t avoid going out, however, it pays to know what you can do to reduce the risks of catching and spreading the coronavirus.
Start with these Three Essential Tips
- Stay informed
Being mindful of what you can and can’t do is the first step in being a responsible citizen. Staying updated with the news is a good start while digging deeper through reliable sources will help you get a better understanding of the rapidly evolving situation.
Bookmark these resources to keep track of the latest health advisories that affect you and your community:
- Be patient
These are trying times for everyone, as we all take extra precautions to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. As a result, there may be a few inconveniences every now and then. Limited manpower or deliberate physical spacing can lead to longer lines or slower service at retail or dining establishments, for example.
Don’t let frustration get the better of you in these situations. Your patience, understanding, and empathy can go a long way in keeping morale high in your local community.
- Think about everyone else around you
Always remember that you can catch the virus and pass it onto others without showing any symptoms, so it’s important to be extra careful.
A checklist of small, practical things you can do when you go out
- Wear a face mask in public spaces, especially if you need to converse with other people.
- Stay at least six feet apart from other people at all times.
- Make thorough hand-washing—a 20-second scrub using soap—a habit.
- Always bring a bottle of hand sanitizer spray or a pack of sanitary wipes with you. Frequently disinfect commonly touched surfaces like your computer, mobile phone, car and house keys, and door knobs.
- Use your knuckles or elbows instead of fingers when pressing buttons on an elevator or other similar situations.
- Prepare a self-sanitation area just outside your home. Disinfect your belongings and head straight to the shower before rejoining your family.
- Avoid public transportation for now. Drive your own car or better yet bike to your destination if you can do so.
- Avoid heading out simply for leisure and entertainment. If it’s not an essential grocery run or your scheduled daily jog, you may be better off staying in.
- Don’t get carried away with social interactions. It may seem awkward, but it’s better to be appropriately cautious and settle for a quick hello when you see a friend outside. Save the detailed catch-ups for your next Facetime call instead.
Learn more about life in Northeast Ohio with leading Cleveland real estate agent Michelle McQuade. Call 440.823.2449 or send an email to MichelleMcQuade(at)HowardHanna(dotted)com to start a conversation today.